Speak up on the proposed Isaac Region Planning Scheme

A number of key changes in response to community feedback has gone back out to community consultation, as Isaac Regional Council looks to finalise its proposed planning scheme.

The proposed Isaac Region Planning Scheme is open to further consultation after being reviewed to incorporate the outcomes of five rounds of community engagement on coastal hazard impacts, and completion of a detailed coastal hazard study in October 2019. 

Further changes have been made to the planning scheme to incorporate other matters raised during the July-September 2018 public consultation process relating to zoning in Moranbah, and policy changes regarding density in residential zones.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker said the proposed scheme sets out the vision for how Isaac’s 17 unique communities and rural areas should grow over the next 20 years and is Council's key document for determining development applications.

“Framing the Isaac’s key plan for the region’s future development continues to be the priority to meet community needs and expectations,” Mayor Baker said.

“As a result of amalgamation in March 2008 we are presently operating under three Planning Schemes, representative of the three former Shire Council areas.

“Each scheme deals with development differently and has different provisions which are understandably confusing and frustrating for members of our communities.

“To help us move forward together as a region, it’s important to have one planning scheme that reflects the needs and aspirations of Isaac.”

Mayor Baker said the proposed Planning Scheme is an important document that will assist in shaping the Isaac region’s future.

“If you own a property or business in the Isaac Region; If you live, work or holiday here, the draft Planning Scheme shall affect you. The draft Planning Scheme will impact on what you can do with your property and what others around you can do,” Mayor Baker said.

Deputy Mayor Kelly Vea Vea, who is the chair of the Planning, Environment and Community Services standing committee, said she strongly encouraged Isaac residents, businesses and commercial industries to provide their submissions.

“We understand the time and effort people spend on lodging feedback however this scheme demonstrates a high level of community commitment and interest in framing the best policies for our region’s future development,” Cr Vea Vea said.

“I strongly encourage our residents, businesses and commercial industries to provide their submissions.

“This proposed scheme is about having a clear and define strategy for growth along with policies that underpin such a plan.”

Following the first consultation in 2018, Council conducted four rounds of community engagement with coastal communities and committed to prepare a detailed assessment of coastal hazard impacts on the Isaac coast, with the study adopted by Council in November 2019.

Council most recently held community engagement sessions in Carmila and Clairview in October 2019 to present the findings of the Isaac Coastal Hazard Study and discuss next steps for completion of the draft planning scheme.

Following the renotification of the planning scheme, a consolidated submissions report will be prepared for consideration of the Queensland Government in approving the planning scheme for adoption. This report will also be presented to Council once prepared for final endorsement.

The proposed Isaac Region Planning Scheme is set to replace the current Belyando, Broadsound and Nebo Planning Schemes. It is also intended to apply to the area currently included in the Moranbah Priority Development Area Development Scheme, once revoked by the Queensland Government.

To review the proposed scheme visit isaac.qld.gov.au/planning-and-building/planning-schemes. Submissions can be lodged:

Council’s proposed Isaac Region Planning Scheme consultation is open between Monday, 8 June to Monday, 6 July 2020. Call Council’s Customer Service Centre available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 1300 ISAACS (1300 472 227) for more assistance.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Isaac Regional Council Brand, Media and Communications      4846 3333